Michael "Mickey" and Shirley (Polson) Martens

Shirley Ann (Polson) and Michael James Martens, 86, have joined each other in heaven on October 5th, 2024, when Mickey passed away surrounded by their loving family.

Shirley passed away on September 1st, 2024, followed by Mickey on October 5th. Shirley was born on May 4th, 1938, to Bernard and Josephine (Watczak) Polson in Duluth, MN and Mickey was born on December 20th, 1937, to Maurice and Lois (Robillard) Martens also in Duluth, MN.

On November 15th,1958, Shirley married Mickey at Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Duluth and celebrated more than 65 years of marriage. They were active members of the St. James Parish throughout their married life. In addition to being a homemaker for the family, Shirley worked at Sammy’s Pizza in Duluth and volunteered at St. Mary’s Hospital. Mickey worked in appliance repair for the City of Duluth Water and Gas Department.

Shirley was a special woman who was extremely caring and giving, often with a big smile on her face brightening up all those around her. Both her and Mickey loved being with their daughter, Krista and her friends, often providing transportation for team sports and other events. They both enjoyed playing cards, cribbage, dice, and bingo. Shirley will be remembered for her beautifully knitted baby sweaters and blankets. They also enjoyed many camping trips in their younger years. Both Martens were extremely generous, willing to help anyone who needed it. Mickey was a former member of Blood Donors where he donated 6 ½ gallons of blood. He was also a die hard Minnesota Twins fan.

Shirley is preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Robert, Eugene, Ronald, Donald, and Thomas Polson; and sisters, Virginia Baker and Joyce Drinkwine.

Mickey is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Pat Martens; and sister, Carole (Mlodozyniec) McLaughlin.

Shirley and Mickey are survived by daughter, Krista (John) Mogck, of Coon Rapids, MN; grandchildren, Rachel, Ariana, and Taylor; brothers, John (Jack & Carol) Polson, Don (Gayle) Martens, Dave (Geri) Martens; sisters, Carol Belland, Beverly Polson, Diane Cich; and many, many nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to extend its heartfelt gratitude to the staff of St. Croix Hospice, Essentia, and Diamond Willow Assisted Living for their loving attention and care.

Visitation will be held at 10 am on Friday, October 25th, 2024, at St. James Catholic Church (715 N 57 th Ave W, Duluth, MN 55807) with Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11 am. 

Funeral arrangements by Williams-Lobermeier-Boettcher Funeral Home.